Brandon Police Service defends suspending high speed chases

Two recent incident highlights the force's policy

Brandon, MB (CKLQ) - Brandon Police Service says that when it comes to high speed chases, public safety is the prime consideration.

Two recent high speed pursuits in the City were suspended by officers, after speeds exceeded 80 km/h.

In one case, the officer had identified the suspect, and made the decision to arrest that person later in the day.

Sargent Ed Conway says the Brandon force uses a policy similar to those in other cities. Public safety is the prime criteria on when to suspend a chase, and both officers and supervisors have the right to make the determination on when to stop a chase.

Conway says with current technologies, officers have the name of the vehicle's registrant and a background check available in real time, which aids in determining whether to suspend and use other means to conclude their investigation.